← Back to Lexicon
H1714 · Hebrew · Old Testament
דֶּגֶל
degel
Noun, masculine
banner, standard, flag

Definition

A degel is a tribal standard, banner, or flag used to identify and rally a group of people. It appears especially in Numbers, where each Israelite tribe camped and marched under its own banner. The word conveys identity, belonging, and visible allegiance.

Usage & Theological Significance

In the Song of Solomon 2:4, the beloved declares "his banner over me is love" — a declaration that God's love is like a military standard raised over His people, proclaiming ownership and protection. Banners also signaled military formations, meaning Israel's God fought as their commander. To fight under a banner was to fight with purpose and divine authority.

Key Bible Verses

Numbers 1:52 The Israelites are to set up their tents by their own camp under their standards [degel], each of them with their own division.
Numbers 2:2 The Israelites are to camp around the tent of meeting some distance from it, each of them under their standard [degel] with the banners of their family.
Numbers 10:14 The divisions of the camp of Judah went first under their standard [degel].
Psalm 20:5 We will shout for joy when you are victorious and will lift up our banners [degel] in the name of our God.
Song of Solomon 2:4 Let him lead me to the banquet hall, and let his banner [degel] over me be love.

Related Words

External Resources

🌙
☀️